Wow sorry to hear about your disappointment. I wonder how long you tested the car before purchase. My Center let me take it home for the evening,to see how we liked it. I dont care much for salesperson test drives. Not that I would ever abuse their car's either.
Im not sure what reliability issuses your concerned about now,a RWD Inline 6 is good as it gets. No CV joints, Turbo ect..
I purchased a early model E46 (1999 323i Sport)and it was a model of reliability. The only reason it was sold as we had other needs at the time. The current owner has 116K on the clock with no major problems. Thats the reason I was not concerned purchasing one of the first batch of E90. Honestly by comparison most modern cars ( kia included) are pretty reliable.
Im with you on paying for the fold down seats, but at least its offered( see Lexus IS)
Yes, it is a garage door opener. And BMW does have homelink. But I did not buy this option. Even on the car with homelink I still use door opener… to lazy to program it
I purchased a early model E46 (1999 323i Sport)and it was a model of reliability
Wow, I guess luck was on your side. According to a survey of owners conducted by Consumer Reports(?), BMW (as a brand) is one of the manufacturers with the highest percentage of problems (~30% more)on the 1st MY compared to 2nd and 3rd MY. In another word, the 1st MY might have 3 problems while the 3rd MY only has 1 problem.
At any rate, I'm not here to knock BMW. I'm interested in a 3Series, and my next question is: do any of you new owners of the new 3 still own the E46 (esp. 330 w/sp)? If so how are they different and similar? Pros and cons?
While I've still not warmed up to the new body style, I might just overlook it in exchange for better drive and ride qualities (again, with sport package).
Yeah, I too had a very early E46 (1999 328i built in Nov. 1998), and yeah, it was horribly unreliable compared to my 2002 530i. How unreliable? The 328i had two burned out laillights, the 530i didn't have any. ;-)
I've mentioned this before, but I'm just gonna comment on it again.
I am so disappointed that the new 3 doesn't have LED taillights. But, I feel quite sure they're coming. At least by 2008, when I buy mine. And of course, proper amber LED turn signals!
I like the LEDs so much on the coupe. I just can't believe BMW let this technological opportunity pass it by on a brand new design.
I got to thinking about this recently when I walked past a Honda Odyssey MINIVAN and noticed it has LED tails. And the new taillights on the '06 Honda Accord are LEDs. Come on, the Accord has LEDs and the wonderful, beautiful 3 does not?! :confuse: Adaptive, Bi-Xenon headlights and no LED tails. What was BMW thinking? The 7 has LEDs and I think the 5 does, too (?). The new IS, the TL and the G35 all have 'em.
Thanks, dfosher!! That gives me some comfort that you are experiencing the same thing. However, I've also noticed that, even after the engine is good and warmed up...just coming to a stop...if I sit for more then a few seconds, it still seems like the engine is sorta rough - not like it is missing or anything... lots of performance cars are like that as well...just expected it to be smooth like a sewing machine like my 2003 330I. NOW can you say you are experiencing the same thing? I'll probably mention it when I take the car in sometime for service but not planning on making an extra trip.... All else is fantastic!! Jeff
Interesting, because the data I saw only showed the 2004 model as having any issues. Even still were talking about sticky moonroofs ect. Hardly any major malfunctions. FWIF I take CR with a grain of salt.
Thousands of messages I wrote a review to compare My former E46 and current E90. In brief, the car is better in every way, even though I still would have preferred a "dipstick" along with the electronic one.
My BMW is an E46 (2003 325 MT) but I also experienced rough starts on cold mornings. It did this regularly last winter and would typically disappear after warming up. One morning the roughness got worse and worse and it turns out one of the ignition coil failed. Let's see what happens this winter. I also have the rough idle when stopped. It seems to happen most often after running on the freeway. It sounds like engine is having trouble keeping the idle RPM stable -- RPM drops to about 500 and then kicks up to 800 to settle down to 700 and then back down to 500 and so on.
The car has never stalled on its own so I never mentioned it when I got the Inspection I.
Thanks for the feedback. I'll just have to search for your past reviews. I haven't been visiting this forum as regularly as I used to a few years ago. Only the other day that I found out that fedlawman had long ditched his beloved TSX for a 3 Series. And lots of useful discussions have passed.
The CR reports only compared 1st MY to subsequent MY's, and, in general (for some brands) it's true that the vehicles produced in the first year is more prone to problems than those of subsequent years. It's probability--chances--not reality, so not everyone is affected.
My '03 TL-S has turned 40,000+ miles w/o any problems, but I wouldn't claim it to be reliable (not yet---I keep my car 8+yrs), and the model of all Acura products. Others are not as 'lucky' as I am with their TL's. My other car: '03 Maxima SE also just turned 42,000+ miles and had it fuel cutoff sensor replaced (under warranty). I still wouldn't call it unreliable and the representation of all Nissan products. For now it seems to me that the Maxi is more troublesome than the TL-S (by 1 problem). However, it is irrelevant(to me) because I keep my cars for more than 3 years (8-10). I'll make my own final judgement in a few more years.
Again, since some of you BMW owners have had great experiences with your cars (even for just 3yrs or less), I would hope for the same kind of 'luck' for myself.
Those of you who want to perform the winter tire/wheel changeover-but lack the tools-might want to check this out. I would prefer a hydraulic jack, but otherwise the BMW kit does have everything you need.
First, my 328i and my 530i called out a 100 Nm (~74 lb-ft)torque spec for the lug bolts. Then you alert me to the fact that BMW has upped the spec to 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft), and now you go and provide a link to a BMW tire changing kit with a torque wrench permanantly set at 130 Nm (~95 lb-ft).
I don't suppose the ever growing diameter of our wheels is what's causing the "Spec creep". :-/
I'm getting ready for the delivery of my 330xi which arrives in NYC this Sunday. From there, I hope it's only two more weeks until it gets to southern NH. Can somebody recommend products for car cleaning and leather conditioning? I have done some research in other websites and these are the products that I have selected so far...
- 303 aerospace protectant for tires, vinyl, weather stripping and wipers - P21S bodywork conditioning shampoo for washing the exterior - Klasse high gloss sealant glaze for polishing the paint and protecting the wheels. (I know of Zaino but don't have the time to apply so many coats) - DP Gel Wheel Cleaner - Leatherique rejuvinator oil for conditioning the leather
Are these good products or am I reading too much in detailing websites? I am confused with the leather protection since there are so many products out there. Some sites recommend using a sealer like mink oil while others recommend against it. Also, I don't want something that will change the leather smell that BMWs have or the color.
Also, has somebody heard of something that dealer offers called Xzilon? Supposedly, BMW warantees the car finish against bird droppings, acid rain, etc. for about 5 years.
If this is not a topic for this forum, please don't hesitate to suggest where to get my questions answered.
yeah i've heard of Xzilon. THey used to have "granitize" but Xzilon is a lot better. THey use on jets, planes, cars, etc. I got it for my 330. It's awesome. Usually when it rains, it leaves waterspots on your cars. But with Xzilon, it just dries right off- no spots. I got mine done for $80 hehehe- i used to work for a toyota dealer so i got the hook up. I would suggest taking it to a Toyota dealership and hvae it done there. IT's the same stuff. The company guarantees it, not BMW. So why spend more than you have to? Oh i also got the interior protection. It doesnt take away the leather smell and it keeps the interior from fading and stained. I think everyone should get it done. After all, you've spent almost $40k on the car, what's another $800?? IT's a piece of mind for 5 years. Totally worth it.
Seriously, what's are the advantages of the LED tail lights?
The LED’s light up quicker.
A few years ago when I purchased a G35 the brochure had a little calculation where it showed that the LED’s illuminated .00x something quicker than a regular bulb and at highways speeds (65mph) it translated into the person behind you being able to see the lights come on 10-15 feet sooner.
Don’t think they burn out as quick.
You can see them in sunlight easier.
I think it’s more the “cool” factor than anything else.
In looking at the '06 3 series brochure and test driving, I didn't see any temp gauge. Did I just miss it or is there none?
The outside temp is right in between the spedo and tach. The temp and clock are always showing right there, and right under that is a section where you can rotate between avg gas mileage, miles 'til empty, avg speed...
According to the car scribes, the 330i and the 325i share the same 3 litre inline 6 except that the 325 is "de-tuned" somewhat. This begs the questions: 1.how exactly is it de-tuned? and 2. can we buy the cheaper 325 and "re-tune" it? If the difference is just a chip it might be well worth it! Anyone know?
PS Interestingly, BMW didn't adhere to its usual nomenclature convention of the last 2 numbers denoting displacement--in this case very understandable! I imagine the company feels a tad uneasy about this. After all isn't quality engineering all about optimizing a given engine rather than purposely compromising it to create a cheaper horse for the stable? it seems almost as if BMW is taunting us with the 330 merely because its more desirable--it's obviously no more expensive to make!
That's a great price. I've read in other forums that the system does not guarantee your paint for 5 years, but rather than the dealer will apply it free of charge, up to 5 years. Do you know if professional application is a must? I have not been able to find retail prices for it in the web.
If you paid less than $100 then the warrantee is a non-issue or you, but for us the less fortunate, we want to make sure that it is guaranteed if it costs around $800. I read that applying any wax, sealant, compound, etc. will void the warranty.
Also, is it true that the Xzilon finish does not give the car the same quality finish that you can get with other waxes and/or polishes?
Putting Xzilon on ur car is a very simple process. It's a small bottle of liquid. They put some of it on a piece of cloth and wipe if over an area on ur car. THen they wipe it off right away with a dry piece of cloth. THey keep on doing this until ur whole car is covered with Xzilon. Anyone can do it by himself. As for your 2nd question- what warranty? I dont think there's such thing as a warranty for paint. Every new car comes with a clear coat but that only lasts for a little while. After a few washes it will be gone. THat's why the dealer offers u the protection. I know for sure it will not void the warranty- if any. I just dont see how trying to protect your paint can void any warranty. 3rd question- I cant tell the difference. It's nothing more than a clear coat. Just like the clear coat that comes with your NEW car except that it's better. It actually makes the paint feel smoother. Actually, if you take a close look at the car, it looks shinier/glossier. I think Xzilon is the best product out there right now. One time i ran out car wash soap so i washed it with just water. It came out just like new. THe pt of Xzilon is so that you dont have to wax your car every few months. Just wash it like you would regularly- only you dont have to worry about waterspots, birddrops acid rains, UV, etc.
saigonboi21 - stop giving advice about something you know nothing about!
The clear coat layer applied above the paint layer at the factory is PERMANENT. It is there to protect the paint surface for the life of the car. The actual amount of paint on a cars is minimnal.
The stuff that you are taking about the dealer applying is nothing more than a synthetic wax that you can buy and apply yourself.
Klasse is a good example of a high quality polymer/silicone wax - and you shouldn't use the stuff.
You shoudl keep a good layer of carnauba wax on your car at all times. Wash you car by hand with gentle soaps (designed for cars) and your wax will last for weeks.
The following is a repost of something I wrote back on 8-Oct-2005:
The 330i has a highly tuned three runner intake manifold that optimizes the rhythmic turbulence of the intake manifold so as to optimize volumetric efficiency (greater amounts of air and fuel in the combustion chamber before the spark event) in the combustion chamber. The 325i was given a single runner intake that is only optimized for midrange power and torque, thus preventing it from attaining the peak torque numbers (lower end) of the 330i as well as preventing it from the high rpm horsepower peak of its 3-Series sibling.
Best Regards, Shipo
P.S.
The following two links are to threads discussing this very topic.
Whats wrong with Klasse? I been using this for years on all my bimmer and it works great. Yes it does not have a smooth finger feeling as carnuba wax. But the protection last much longer and the shine is fantastic that last for about a year before you need to reapply. Just wanted to know why you say not to use Klasse; want to see what you take on this product.
I just got my 2006 330xi last Thursday and wanted to try out those exiting features. The first one I thought of was to make iPod connect to my BMW. The question was: how?
I have been seeking for solution for a couple of days. Your presentation is really helpful and I appreciate it.
I am just curious about one thing: why does this MP3 player have to be iPod? I can connect any MP3 device through this AUX since no shuffling allowed on the steering wheel. Am I right?
"...taunting us with the 330 merely because its more desirable--it's obviously no more expensive to make!"
Not so obvious. First off, the intake header on the 330i is a fairly complex piece of engineering worthy of a small premium. Secondly, the base 330i has as standard features things that are options on the 325i.
Also, there are better examples of the "purposely compromising it to create a cheaper horse for the stable" phenomenon. The CPU in your computer for example. The least expensive Pentium processor cost the same to produce as the most expensive one in the line up.
It's like lauding the advantages of ABS, but yet there is not one study anywhere that actually shows an advantage to having ABS over not having it. Yet my insurer provides a discount and most of us would not be without it.
I am not currently a BMW owner, but I am thinking of purchasing one in the near future. Some of my friends have told me to STAY AWAY from BMW. One BMW mechanic told my friend that they create them to have these small, ticky-tack problems (such as electrical problems). The engine is never really a worry. Of course you are safe for 4 years...but after that they say you'll get screwed unless you extend you warranty. Anybody have any thoughts on this? If i'm totally wrong please forgive me! I just would like to get some insight from BMW owners. Thanks!
FEDLAWMAN- I dont want to start an argument here ut I actually do know pretty much everything about the Xzilon. I used to work for a dealership and sold that stuff myself. I dont know whether BMW 's clear coat is permanent or not. However, If the clear coat is permanent, why would they sell you the Xzilon to PROTECT your paint? Like i said you can buy the stuff yourself and apply it. Each bottle costs about $600. Still think it's "nothing more than a synthetic wax" ? They even use Xzilon on planes to protect the paint from rain, UV, etc. Now what's the point of having Xzilon?? How long do you think it would take to WAX a Boeing 747?? WHy would they spend time and money every couple of weeks when they can put on something that lasts for 5 years?? Like i said in previous post, you can still apply wax to your car. However, the point of having "granitize" or "Xzilon" is so that you dont have to wax it. I think i might have left something out earlier. When you wash your car, the soap should have some wax in it so that it HELPS protect the paint. But again, no need for waxing. I would pay $500-600 for the stuff but not $800-1000. Simply because you can always get it for about $500 at other dealers. It is worth it for me because i dont want to spend all that time waxing my car every few months for 5 years.
I used Klasse on my SUV for 2 years, and I was happy with it too. I didn't plan on keeping the car for a very long time, it looked good enough, it was easy to apply, and it did last a long time. However, my SUV was a daily driven appliance, I didn't love it...
Carnauba wax is a natural product, and car waxes based on carnauba contain oils and other natural protective properties that "feed" your paint and allow it to breathe. I doubt that a synthetic wax possesses all of these traits.
So besides the natural benefits of using real wax to enhance the longevity of your paint (which you may or may not buy into, or even care about), natural wax has other benefits too. It shines deeper and glossier, protects just as well, lasts for 3-4 months (if you hand wash in between waxings), and is easily removed if needed (like if you get bird droppings or road tar and need to strip the wax and reapply it).
I guess it boils down to how much time you have/want to invest in washing and waxing, how much you care about how deep/glossy the finish looks, and how much you care about the long-term curing of your paint.
My best advice is to google auto detailing and do some research to decide for yourself where you personally fall on the effort vs. results scale.
i think it varies. My aunt's 2001 Honda Accord is already breaking down. I received a 1987 325i - 5 speed from my uncle as a toy car. everything on it works fine. The only thing is that the stereo wire is a little bit loose. But then again it's 18 years old. My former co-worker warned me about buying a BMW too but so far i dont see any problems with it. Im going to purchase the extended warranty when i reach about 48,000 miles or so. If you're worried about the mech, probs, just lease the car. You'll probably get sick of it after 3 years and want a new one. You'll get screwed on practially any car when the warranty runs out. Did you know that Huyndai requires that you pay a deductible every time you bring in your car for service- even if the item is covered under warranty. Just try it out, if something happens there's always the warranty...
Saigonboi21 - Maybe Xzilon is the greatest thing since sliced bread, maybe it isn't. I don't know.
I do know that based on your comments (and your own admission), you don't even know what clearcoat paint is, in spite of the fact that pretty much every car built in the last 15 yeas has it.
Call me crazy, but I would hesitate to take your anecdotal advice about a paint care product.
Maybe you could provide us with some info about Xzilon's ingredients, chemical properties, how it reacts with automotive finishes, and some of the independent testing that has been done. Web links please...
"I just ordered zaino today, and figure that the time it will take will be saved because I wont have to wax it every 4-6 weeks."
Zaino has a lot of web PR, but i tried to do 1/2 my hood in regular wax and 1/2 in zaino, and there was no improvement at all. IMO, save your money and time.
"According to the car scribes, the 330i and the 325i share the same 3 litre inline 6 except that the 325 is "de-tuned" somewhat. This begs the questions: 1.how exactly is it de-tuned? and 2. can we buy the cheaper 325 and "re-tune" it? If the difference is just a chip it might be well worth it! Anyone know? "
The design seems to suggest you could get a major portion of the torque, at least, back with a chip. How much is open to question. I'd guess 1/2. So, perhaps 230 hp and 210lb-lt. IMOP, that would be the better part of the 330.
However, if you want xenons, better brakes, etc, just go with the 330.
I use Klasse and Pinnacle. I use the Klasse product to "seal" the paint. Then I use pinaacle to wax. I wax probably once every 7 mos. Every couple of weeks when i wash the car using pinnacle shampoo, i also use pinnacle crystal mist after i dry it. Its like a touch up spray that brings back the wax. IMHO pinnacle is the best one ever. Its awesome on dark cars - black, racing red etc and really brings out/back the color. The black is deeper than ever and red becomes truly eye catching I've had many people (even gas station attendants) comment on how great the paint and detailing is on the car.
when i said clearcoat i meant the one that is supposed to protect your paint. Every new car has it but it goes away after a couple of washes. That is why they sell u the Xzilon. I knew this was gonna come back and bite me in the back: i said i know "pretty much" everything about Xzilon meaning how it works, what it supposed to do, and how they put it on and such. There's not much information that you can find on Xzilon. THerefore i cant provide you with ingredients, chemical properties, etc. I was a salesman- not a scientist so dont get all scientific on me. I do have to admit that i was wrong on stating that it's the company that provides the warranty. I do know that the dealer will get reimbursed by the company that makes Xzilon. So here's what i found
You can connect any MP3 player or other audio device via the aux-in port. You will need a cable that has 3.5 mm plugs on both ends. One end will go into the headphone jack of your MP3 player, and the other will go intot he aux-in port. You can find this type of cable at Radio Shack, Wal-Mart, or just about any other retailer.
However, If the clear coat is permanent, why would they sell you the Xzilon to PROTECT your paint?
Because it's almost 100% added profit for the dealership? I find it hard to believe that the dealership pays $500 per bottle, although they may have told you that.
Because it's almost 100% added profit for the dealership? I find it hard to believe that the dealership pays $500 per bottle, although they may have told you that.
Do some research and you'll find that each bottle costs about $500. It is true that the dealer gets some profit in selling the sealant. Of course they will make profit when they try to sell you things. My point is that if the clearcoat is permanent-ie it protects the paint for the life of the car- why would anyone want to sell you Xzilon? Say if the dealer just wants the profit and the Xzilon really does nothing, arent they afraid of being sued?? Once again Xzilon protects the paint and offers a piece of mind for 5 years. Like i said, of course the dealer will make profit off of it. THen again, i dont have to wax my car or even have to worry about the paint for 5 years. I only paid $80- so sue me. I would've gladly paid $500-600 for it; but why pay more when i can pay less?
ps. each bottle is enough for about 2 cars-depending on the size. So they make a few hundred $ profit. So even though it DOES cost $500 a bottle, they still make profit. It's very believable to me. hmmm how do i know this? because i actually looked up its cost when i still worked at the dealership.
Comments
Im not sure what reliability issuses your concerned about now,a RWD Inline 6 is good as it gets. No CV joints, Turbo ect..
I purchased a early model E46 (1999 323i Sport)and it was a model of reliability. The only reason it was sold as we had other needs at the time. The current owner has 116K on the clock with no major problems. Thats the reason I was not concerned purchasing one of the first batch of E90. Honestly by comparison most modern cars ( kia included) are pretty reliable.
Im with you on paying for the fold down seats, but at least its offered( see Lexus IS)
Good Luck
DL
DL
Wow, I guess luck was on your side. According to a survey of owners conducted by Consumer Reports(?), BMW (as a brand) is one of the manufacturers with the highest percentage of problems (~30% more)on the 1st MY compared to 2nd and 3rd MY. In another word, the 1st MY might have 3 problems while the 3rd MY only has 1 problem.
At any rate, I'm not here to knock BMW. I'm interested in a 3Series, and my next question is: do any of you new owners of the new 3 still own the E46 (esp. 330 w/sp)? If so how are they different and similar? Pros and cons?
While I've still not warmed up to the new body style, I might just overlook it in exchange for better drive and ride qualities (again, with sport package).
Best Regards,
Shipo
I am so disappointed that the new 3 doesn't have LED taillights. But, I feel quite sure they're coming. At least by 2008, when I buy mine.
I like the LEDs so much on the coupe. I just can't believe BMW let this technological opportunity pass it by on a brand new design.
I got to thinking about this recently when I walked past a Honda Odyssey MINIVAN and noticed it has LED tails. And the new taillights on the '06 Honda Accord are LEDs. Come on, the Accord has LEDs and the wonderful, beautiful 3 does not?! :confuse: Adaptive, Bi-Xenon headlights and no LED tails. What was BMW thinking? The 7 has LEDs and I think the 5 does, too (?). The new IS, the TL and the G35 all have 'em.
Oh, well. Good things come to those who wait.
Thousands of messages I wrote a review to compare My former E46 and current E90. In brief, the car is better in every way, even though I still would have preferred a "dipstick" along with the electronic one.
Good Luck with your decision.
DL
The car has never stalled on its own so I never mentioned it when I got the Inspection I.
The CR reports only compared 1st MY to subsequent MY's, and, in general (for some brands) it's true that the vehicles produced in the first year is more prone to problems than those of subsequent years. It's probability--chances--not reality, so not everyone is affected.
My '03 TL-S has turned 40,000+ miles w/o any problems, but I wouldn't claim it to be reliable (not yet---I keep my car 8+yrs), and the model of all Acura products. Others are not as 'lucky' as I am with their TL's. My other car: '03 Maxima SE also just turned 42,000+ miles and had it fuel cutoff sensor replaced (under warranty). I still wouldn't call it unreliable and the representation of all Nissan products. For now it seems to me that the Maxi is more troublesome than the TL-S (by 1 problem). However, it is irrelevant(to me) because I keep my cars for more than 3 years (8-10). I'll make my own final judgement in a few more years.
Again, since some of you BMW owners have had great experiences with your cars (even for just 3yrs or less), I would hope for the same kind of 'luck' for myself.
Are you being sarcastic?
Seriously, what's are the advantages of the LED tail lights?
Of course.
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=TOOL&pid=00950138000-
It's small and lightweight for easy transport, and it's only $40 right now.
First, my 328i and my 530i called out a 100 Nm (~74 lb-ft)torque spec for the lug bolts. Then you alert me to the fact that BMW has upped the spec to 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft), and now you go and provide a link to a BMW tire changing kit with a torque wrench permanantly set at 130 Nm (~95 lb-ft).
I don't suppose the ever growing diameter of our wheels is what's causing the "Spec creep". :-/
Best Regards,
Shipo
- 303 aerospace protectant for tires, vinyl, weather stripping and wipers
- P21S bodywork conditioning shampoo for washing the exterior
- Klasse high gloss sealant glaze for polishing the paint and protecting the wheels. (I know of Zaino but don't have the time to apply so many coats)
- DP Gel Wheel Cleaner
- Leatherique rejuvinator oil for conditioning the leather
Are these good products or am I reading too much in detailing websites? I am confused with the leather protection since there are so many products out there. Some sites recommend using a sealer like mink oil while others recommend against it. Also, I don't want something that will change the leather smell that BMWs have or the color.
Also, has somebody heard of something that dealer offers called Xzilon? Supposedly, BMW warantees the car finish against bird droppings, acid rain, etc. for about 5 years.
If this is not a topic for this forum, please don't hesitate to suggest where to get my questions answered.
Thanks,
dom1
Use clay, polish (when needed), and good carnauba wax.
Check this website for good advice and products...
http://www.griotsgarage.com/catalog.jsp?L1=L1_1000&L2=L2_1001&SKU=11131
The LED’s light up quicker.
A few years ago when I purchased a G35 the brochure had a little calculation where it showed that the LED’s illuminated .00x something quicker than a regular bulb and at highways speeds (65mph) it translated into the person behind you being able to see the lights come on 10-15 feet sooner.
Don’t think they burn out as quick.
You can see them in sunlight easier.
I think it’s more the “cool” factor than anything else.
The outside temp is right in between the spedo and tach. The temp and clock are always showing right there, and right under that is a section where you can rotate between avg gas mileage, miles 'til empty, avg speed...
regards,
kyfdx
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PS Interestingly, BMW didn't adhere to its usual nomenclature convention of the last 2 numbers denoting displacement--in this case very understandable! I imagine the company feels a tad uneasy about this. After all isn't quality engineering all about optimizing a given engine rather than purposely compromising it to create a cheaper horse for the stable? it seems almost as if BMW is taunting us with the 330 merely because its more desirable--it's obviously no more expensive to make!
Oh, did you mean engine temperature or outside temperature? Maybe I misunderstood the question?
alpine white, beige leather
premium package, cold weather package, automatic
$38,595.00
36 month lease, 15,000 miles per year, $23,542.00 residual
$4370.22 down
$555 per month
...i think it is high...any negotiating tips?
That's a great price. I've read in other forums that the system does not guarantee your paint for 5 years, but rather than the dealer will apply it free of charge, up to 5 years. Do you know if professional application is a must? I have not been able to find retail prices for it in the web.
If you paid less than $100 then the warrantee is a non-issue or you, but for us the less fortunate, we want to make sure that it is guaranteed if it costs around $800. I read that applying any wax, sealant, compound, etc. will void the warranty.
Also, is it true that the Xzilon finish does not give the car the same quality finish that you can get with other waxes and/or polishes?
Thanks for the info,
Dom1
The clear coat layer applied above the paint layer at the factory is PERMANENT. It is there to protect the paint surface for the life of the car. The actual amount of paint on a cars is minimnal.
The stuff that you are taking about the dealer applying is nothing more than a synthetic wax that you can buy and apply yourself.
Klasse is a good example of a high quality polymer/silicone wax - and you shouldn't use the stuff.
You shoudl keep a good layer of carnauba wax on your car at all times. Wash you car by hand with gentle soaps (designed for cars) and your wax will last for weeks.
Don't pay the dealer for that junk.
The 330i has a highly tuned three runner intake manifold that optimizes the rhythmic turbulence of the intake manifold so as to optimize volumetric efficiency (greater amounts of air and fuel in the combustion chamber before the spark event) in the combustion chamber. The 325i was given a single runner intake that is only optimized for midrange power and torque, thus preventing it from attaining the peak torque numbers (lower end) of the 330i as well as preventing it from the high rpm horsepower peak of its 3-Series sibling.
Best Regards,
Shipo
P.S.
The following two links are to threads discussing this very topic.
http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/direct/view/.ef13c75/3772
http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/direct/view/.ef13c75/3747
I have been seeking for solution for a couple of days. Your presentation is really helpful and I appreciate it.
I am just curious about one thing: why does this MP3 player have to be iPod? I can connect any MP3 device through this AUX since no shuffling allowed on the steering wheel. Am I right?
Thanks!
Try posting your question here: BMW 3-Series: Lease Questions
Or, here: BMW 3-Series: Prices Paid & Buying Experience
regards,
kyfdx
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Not so obvious. First off, the intake header on the 330i is a fairly complex piece of engineering worthy of a small premium. Secondly, the base 330i has as standard features things that are options on the 325i.
Also, there are better examples of the "purposely compromising it to create a cheaper horse for the stable" phenomenon. The CPU in your computer for example. The least expensive Pentium processor cost the same to produce as the most expensive one in the line up.
It's like lauding the advantages of ABS, but yet there is not one study anywhere that actually shows an advantage to having ABS over not having it. Yet my insurer provides a discount and most of us would not be without it.
Carnauba wax is a natural product, and car waxes based on carnauba contain oils and other natural protective properties that "feed" your paint and allow it to breathe. I doubt that a synthetic wax possesses all of these traits.
So besides the natural benefits of using real wax to enhance the longevity of your paint (which you may or may not buy into, or even care about), natural wax has other benefits too. It shines deeper and glossier, protects just as well, lasts for 3-4 months (if you hand wash in between waxings), and is easily removed if needed (like if you get bird droppings or road tar and need to strip the wax and reapply it).
I guess it boils down to how much time you have/want to invest in washing and waxing, how much you care about how deep/glossy the finish looks, and how much you care about the long-term curing of your paint.
My best advice is to google auto detailing and do some research to decide for yourself where you personally fall on the effort vs. results scale.
I do know that based on your comments (and your own admission), you don't even know what clearcoat paint is, in spite of the fact that pretty much every car built in the last 15 yeas has it.
Call me crazy, but I would hesitate to take your anecdotal advice about a paint care product.
Maybe you could provide us with some info about Xzilon's ingredients, chemical properties, how it reacts with automotive finishes, and some of the independent testing that has been done. Web links please...
Zaino has a lot of web PR, but i tried to do 1/2 my hood in regular wax and 1/2 in zaino, and there was no improvement at all. IMO, save your money and time.
dave
The design seems to suggest you could get a major portion of the torque, at least, back with a chip. How much is open to question. I'd guess 1/2. So, perhaps 230 hp and 210lb-lt. IMOP, that would be the better part of the 330.
However, if you want xenons, better brakes, etc, just go with the 330.
dave
You can connect any MP3 player or other audio device via the aux-in port. You will need a cable that has 3.5 mm plugs on both ends. One end will go into the headphone jack of your MP3 player, and the other will go intot he aux-in port. You can find this type of cable at Radio Shack, Wal-Mart, or just about any other retailer.
Because it's almost 100% added profit for the dealership? I find it hard to believe that the dealership pays $500 per bottle, although they may have told you that.
Because it's almost 100% added profit for the dealership? I find it hard to believe that the dealership pays $500 per bottle, although they may have told you that.
Do some research and you'll find that each bottle costs about $500. It is true that the dealer gets some profit in selling the sealant. Of course they will make profit when they try to sell you things. My point is that if the clearcoat is permanent-ie it protects the paint for the life of the car- why would anyone want to sell you Xzilon? Say if the dealer just wants the profit and the Xzilon really does nothing, arent they afraid of being sued?? Once again Xzilon protects the paint and offers a piece of mind for 5 years. Like i said, of course the dealer will make profit off of it. THen again, i dont have to wax my car or even have to worry about the paint for 5 years. I only paid $80- so sue me. I would've gladly paid $500-600 for it; but why pay more when i can pay less?
ps. each bottle is enough for about 2 cars-depending on the size. So they make a few hundred $ profit. So even though it DOES cost $500 a bottle, they still make profit. It's very believable to me. hmmm how do i know this? because i actually looked up its cost when i still worked at the dealership.